Laryngeal Findings in a 20-Month-Old With Cri du Chat Syndrome

Laryngoscope. 2024 Dec 12. doi: 10.1002/lary.31941. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Laryngeal anatomical variations in Cri du Chat syndrome remain incompletely characterized in the medical literature, with few published photographic documentations. We present a case of a 20-month-old male with confirmed 5p15 deletion who presented with congenital inspiratory stridor and dysphagia. Videofluoroscopic evaluation at 13 months demonstrated aspiration of thin liquids. Microlaryngobronchoscopy revealed a Cormack-Lehane grade 3 view with a retroflexed epiglottis secondary to tight aryepiglottic folds, and laterally positioned false vocal cords resulting in broad, flat ventricles. Bilateral aryepiglottic fold division improved direct laryngoscopic visualization to Cormack-Lehane grade 1. This report provides detailed laryngeal characterization with photographic documentation, contributing to the understanding of airway variations in this syndrome. Recognition of these anatomical features is crucial for optimizing airway management strategies in this patient population. Laryngoscope, 2024.

Keywords: Cri du Chat syndrome; congenital laryngeal anomalies; congenital stridor; pediatric airway management; pediatric otolaryngology.

Publication types

  • Case Reports